Australian actress Leila George finds the romance in small moments. Whether walking her dog against the backdrop of the sparkling Manhattan skyline, or biking through Williamsburg in the soft breeze of summer. She's someone easily remedied by life's little moments – not one to overlook an adventure.

We meet with George in her suite at The Wall Street Hotel in New York City, where she readies herself to attend Paspaley's second annual Trunk Show. Returning to the city for a second year to unveil its newest collection of pearl-centric designs, George is something of a muse for the fine jewellers, who are renowned for their creations of unmatched beauty and craftsmanship.

Over five days, George and guests enjoyed intimate, champagne-fuelled appointments, surrounded by curated displays and lush florals redolent of the jewellers' origins in the South Sea and Kimberley regions of Australia.

RUSSH spoke with George as she got ready for the Trunk Show to talk all things Paspaley, New York City, and her upcoming Apple TV+ series DISCLAIMER.

 

Is NYC where you call home currently? What is it that excites you about the city?

Yes, I’m living in New York. Brooklyn, actually – Williamsburg. I love it. I always felt quite claustrophobic in the city and from where I live now, I can walk my dog along the riverfront and look out onto the wondrous Manhattan skyline. I also love the neighbourhood. I actually run into people I know on the street here, I missed that in L.A.

I feel like there is always something to do in New York. There’s always something happening; a play to see, a reading to go to, a dance class. In New York I feel like an artist.

 

How do you like to spend your time in the city? Do you have any favourite café, galleries or shopping destinations?

I always feel like most of my day is spent walking my dog! I’m a bit of a gym junkie, so everyday I’m working out with my trainer, or doing boxing, yoga or dance. I like to go to any of the Soho Houses to get work done. I can’t focus at home – too much reality TV to watch – so I’ll spend hours at Soho House writing, studying for auditions or catching up on emails.

I also love going to comedy shows. I spent a night recently with my friends comedy club hopping through the city on bikes. One of my favourite things about summer in New York is getting everywhere on a bike.

 

 

Tell me about the pieces you’re wearing today. Do you have a favourite look?

I like the classic pearl strands, earrings and bracelets. Especially the Keshi ones. I like my basics when it comes to any kind of fashion and these can go with practically anything.

For the Trunk Show look, I wanted pieces that were a bit more of a statement. I wore the Monsoon Large Cicada Pendant with the Rockpool Chain and paired it with the matching Monsoon Cicada Earrings.

 

What do you love about working with Paspaley?

Working with Paspaley has taken me to the most beautiful places in Australia that I may never have been lucky enough to see. Getting to explore the Kimberly, Broome and Kuri Bay, which are all part of the home of Paspaley pearls in Western Australia, are like nothing I’ve ever seen.

 

 

How do you feel when you wear Paspaley pieces?

Paspaley always makes me feel classy and sophisticated. Like a lady. But an adventurous one.

 

How do you like to style your Paspaley pieces?

I often line up my ears with a full stack of Keshi Pearl Studs. Four on one side and two on the other. Especially when I’m on a beach vacation. There’s nothing like wearing pearls in the ocean. I also love wearing The Kimberly Collection on holiday.

 

 

How does it feel to get ready at The Wall Street Hotel?

This is my first time at The Wall Street Hotel, which is owned by the Paspaley family. It’s such a beautiful hotel and its incredible design is a nod the Paspaley brand. I particularly loved the use of Mother of Pearl throughout, inspired of course by Paspaley pearls.

 

What are you most excited to see/experience at the Paspaley Trunk Show in NYC?

I’m excited for the Trunk Show! It’s always fun seeing people discover Paspaley jewellery for the first time. There’s something for everyone. It’s also such a lovely history and family to learn about.

 

 

You have a new Apple Series, DISCLAIMER releasing in October, do you mind sharing a little bit about the process of creating the series and any memorable moments?

I’m very excited for everyone to see DISCLAIMER. Alfonso Cuaron has, as usual, created a beautiful masterpiece. It was a dream come true to be a part of it. Working with him was such a pleasure, everyday. I wish I could do it all over again. Cate Blanchett is incredible, all the performances are. It’s a show, or as Alfonso likes to say, a seven-part film, about love, family, trauma, punishment and healing... but I don’t want to give too much away. It airs onApple TV+ October 11th.